Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB286

Introduced
2/7/23  

Caption

Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act; certain consumer protections against surprise billing for ambulance service; provide

Impact

The passage of HB 286 is expected to enhance consumer protections in the realm of emergency medical services, redefining financial responsibilities for covered individuals when ambulance services are involved. By mandating that insurers provide reimbursement aligned with either the average of participating providers' fees or a minimum amount based on Medicare reimbursement rates, the bill seeks to mitigate unexpected financial burdens. This shift in policy is anticipated to set a precedent in how healthcare plans handle ambulance services, potentially influencing other areas of healthcare and emergency services regulations.

Summary

House Bill 286 amends the 'Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act' to include specific provisions aimed at protecting consumers from unexpected medical bills associated with ambulance services. This legislation requires healthcare plans to reimburse covered individuals for ambulance services, even when those services are provided by nonparticipating ambulance providers. The bill aims to ensure that consumers are not left with excessive out-of-pocket expenses when they require emergency transportation, particularly in urgent medical situations where they have limited choice over the provider.

Contention

While proponents of HB 286 argue that it will safeguard consumers from exorbitant surprise medical bills, there may be opposing viewpoints regarding the implications for ambulance providers and insurance companies. Concerns may arise over the adequacy of reimbursement rates set by the bill, the potential financial strain on ambulance services, particularly those that are already struggling financially, and the administrative burden it places on healthcare insurers. The bill's requirement for arbitration further raises questions about conflict resolution and the protections it offers to both patients and providers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB295

Insurance; consumer protections against surprise billing; revise certain procedures

GA HB4444

Relating to consumer protections against surprise billing.

GA SB20

"Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act"; ensure consumer access to quality healthcare by setting adequacy standards for network plans offered by an insurer

GA H456

No Surprises for Ambulance Services Act

GA HB1284

Health Insurance Surprise Billing Protections

GA H997

To protect health care consumers from surprise billing

GA H1144

To protect health care consumers from surprise billing

GA HB2226

Protecting consumers from surprise bills by health care providers

GA HB70

Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act; require provider to notify a covered person if services require $100.00 or more in out-of-pocket costs

GA SB632

Relating to surprise billing of out-of-network ambulance services

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.